Dhaka, July 28 -- Social Welfare Minister Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Tuesday said if advanced treatment for hepatitis B can be ensured within the country, it will reduce patients' tendency to travel abroad for treatment as well as cut medical costs.

"The country's healthcare system needs to acquire modern technology and international expertise to move forward," the minister made these remarks at a programme organised by Gastroenterology Society of Bangladesh at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) to mark World Hepatitis Day.

This year's theme for the day is "Elimination for Everyone, Everywhere, Right Now."

Minister Zahid said a significant section of Bangladesh's population is suffering from fatty liver disease without being aware of it....